Italian officials discuss electoral risks and political figures

Giovanbattista Fazzolari, Undersecretary to the Presidency of the Council, has commented on the future of Italian leadership and potential risks to upcoming elections. Fazzolari stated that Giorgia Meloni is not currently suited for the role of President of the Republic, suggesting such a move is unlikely in 2028. He also noted a “concrete risk” of Russian disinformation influencing Italian elections, though he clarified that he does not believe there are Putin agents within Italian politics, only “low-level opportunists.”

Regarding Roberto Vannacci, Fazzolari compared him to Giuseppe Conte, stating that his administration would not form alliances with those who approach politics opportunistically. Meanwhile, Senator Maurizio Gasparri of Forza Italia expressed a refusal to engage in direct conflict with Vannacci, arguing that attacking him only provides him with unwanted publicity. Gasparri emphasized that politics requires a lifetime of experience and mediation, noting that while Silvio Berlusconi was a unique exception, many others who entered politics without such a background have not found success.